In the Preface, we motivate the book by discussing the history of quantum computing and the development of the field of quantum algorithms over the past several decades. We argue that the present moment calls for adopting an end-to-end lens in how we study quantum algorithms, and we discuss the contents of the book and how to use it.

This chapter explores the origin, key components, and essential concepts of quantum computing. It begins by charting the series of discoveries by various scientists that crystallized into the idea of quantum computing. The text then examines how certain applications have driven the evolution of quantum computing from a theoretical concept to an international endeavour. Additionally, the text clarifies the distinctions between quantum and classical computers, highlighting the DiVincenzo criteria, which are the five criteria for quantum computing. It also introduces the circuit model as the foundational paradigm for quantum computation. Lastly, the chapter sheds light on the reasons for the belief that quantum computers are more powerful than classical ones (touching on quantum computational complexity) and physically realizable (touching on quantum error correction).